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Do I Need an Expert to Defend an OUI Charge in Massachusetts?

An expert is not essential in defending a Massachusetts OUI charge with a breathalyzer test result over.08. The first step in defending an OUI arrest with failed breath test results is to attempt to get the results excluded from admission into evidence at trial. If this motion is successful, expert testimony will not be necessary.

If the motion is denied, you may want to considering hiring an expert. Attorney DelSignore has used expert testimony to obtain a not guilty verdict in two recent cases:

  • The client was charged with OUI and blew a.10 on the breath test machine after being involved in an accident. The expert testified that the reading from the machine was inaccurate because it did not measure deep lung air. The jury found the defendant not guilty.
  • Another recent case involved a breath test result of.08. While it is not necessary to have an expert on a case of a.08, it is helpful. In this case, the expert was able to explain the margin of error of the machine, resulting in a not guilty verdict.

Attorney DelSignore understand the science behind blood testing and breath testing. Lawyers can challenge evidence though cross examination, but ultimately the court may find that our questions and or arguments do not constitute evidence. In those types of cases, we need our own witness to educate the judge as to the science. This can occur with breath testing or blood testing, either though a hospital blood test or a blood test by the Massachusetts State police.

Here are some of the issues that expert testimony can assist in an OUI defense:

  1. An expert can explain that a medical condition, like acid reflux, asthma or other medical condition can undermine the assumptions of the breath test machine.
  2. Temperature is relevant in breath testing and can make the results artificially high. An expert can teach the judge this science to help get the results excluded from evidence.
  3. In a close case around.08 or.09, an expert can explain the various margins of error that can occur in breath testing.
  4. In a hospital blood test case, an expert can testify that a hospital blood test is a screening test and not a forensic test. Attorney DelSignore has had experts testify to the flaws in hospital blood testing in OUI cases.

What does it cost to hire an expert?

An expert can be expensive, the typical cost for an expert will start at a minimum of $2500 and the prices will go up depending on the nature of the expert. If it is a local expert, the cost will likely be around $2500 but there are national experts who charge significantly more as they have to be paid not only for their time but for their travel expenses.

Most expert will engage in a preliminary review of the case for a modest fee to determine if their expertise could assist with the defense of the case. This fee typically ranges from $ 350 to $ 500.00 dollars.

How is the expert retained?

Depending on the particular issue in your case, Attorney DelSignore will select the best expert to assist in preparing our defense. The goal an expert that can explain the subject matter we want to teach the jury while at the same time retaining an expert that has good communication skills and will be well received by the jury.

If you have any questions about expert testimony in a Massachusetts OUI arrest, feel free to call or text at 781-686-5924. It is never too early or late to call. Weekends and holiday calls are always welcomed as we are here to help.


Criminal Defense
Client Reviews
★★★★★
Michael was very professional and explained the process clearly and told us to be patient. After one year the charges got dismissed in the trial. Excellent knowledge of the court systems in the area of Boston. Would highly recommend him Ashwani
★★★★★
A careless decision on my part left me facing charges which would have severely hampered my ability to stay employed and support myself. But attorney DelSignore's skillful analysis and challenging of the evidence against me resulted in a conviction on a lesser charge. Now I'll be able to go on with my life, having learned a lesson I'll never forget. Thank you, Michael. Scott
★★★★★
Mike stuck with my case for 3.5 years and always kept me informed regarding the status. Ultimately, because of his due diligence, we ended up with an OUI not guilty verdict. This case could have gone many ways but his thorough review of the case and exceptional preparedness for trial ultimately drove a positive outcome. Thank you Mike! David
★★★★★
Michael DelSignore did an amazing job with my case! He was always available to answer any questions I had and helped walked me through the entire process. I could not have done it without them! I highly recommend choosing this law firm to deal with your legal needs, you will not be dissatisfied. Ashley
★★★★★
I cannot express the gratitude towards Michael for his amazing work and help. It was a very stressful event and they certainly put me at as much ease as possible. From start to finish it took 14 months and all the way through they were both very engaged with me. Today was worth the wait, Michael was great in court and I was rightfully found not guilty. I would recommend Michael over and over again. Claire
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